Gordon C. James – illustratör

Discover the story of young James Baldwin in this ode to the legendary writer and the power of the written word-with exquisite prose from acclaimed poet Quartez Harris, and breathtaking illustrations from New York Times bestselling creator and Caldecott Honoree Gordon C. James.The first time Jimmy read a book the words clung to him like glitter...Before James Baldwin was a celebrated novelist, essayist, playwright, poet, and activist, he was a boy who fell in love with stories. Words opened up new worlds for young Jimmy, who read and wrote at every opportunity. He ultimately realizes his dreams of becoming an author and giving voice to his community, and in doing so he showed the world the fullness of Black American life.This picture book biography of an American icon is a poetic introduction to James Baldwin and an ode to the power of language. Additional biographical information and beautiful notes from the author and illustrator round out this stunning celebration of Baldwin's life and work. ★ Lyrical, accessible true story of an American icon, with bonus information at the back of the book ★ Beautiful, vibrant art from Gordon C. James, two-time winner of the Kirkus Prize, a Caldecott honoree, and Coretta Scott King honoree, and Society of Illustrators Gold Medalist! ★ Celebrates the power of reading, hard work, and following your dreams

I am a nonstop ball of energy. Powerful and full of light. I am a go-getter. A difference maker. A leader.The confident Black narrator of this book is proud of everything that makes him who he is. He’s got big plans, and no doubt he’ll see them through - as he’s creative, adventurous, smart, funny, and a good friend. Sometimes he falls, but he always gets back up. And other times he’s afraid, because he’s so often misunderstood and called what he is not. So slow down and really look and listen, when somebody tells you - and shows you - who they are. There are superheroes in our midst!

Selected by Oprah Magazine as one of its 'essential books for discussing racism with kids'. I am a non-stop ball of energy. Powerful and full of light. I am a go-getter. A difference-maker. A leader. Step inside the mind of the confident narrator of this book. He is proud of everything that makes him who he is. He's got big plans, and will see them through. He's creative, adventurous, smart, funny. A good friend. A superhero. Sometimes he falls, but he always gets back up. And other times he's afraid, because he's often misunderstood. So, slow down, look and listen as he shows you who he really is … Featured in the Booktrust Great Books Guide 2021 Observer Children’s Picture Book of the Month Perfect for fans of Dapo Adeola’s Hey You! ‘Pitch-perfect… Gordon C James’s painted portraits brim with spirit and dignity. The result is a truly special book by an American author-illustrator duo at the top of their game’ – Imogen Carter, Observer‘A poetic paean to the brilliance of black boys, its energetic pages filled with courage, joy and vivid, dynamic illustrations’ – Guardian‘A powerful celebration of Black boyhood’ – Booklist, starred review‘A much-needed book for Black children when society demonstrates otherwise’ – Kirkus Reviews, starred review‘This beautiful and necessary book that affirms Black boys and their right to thrive’ – Horn Book, starred review‘An empowering ode to Black boy joy’ – Publishers Weekly, starred review‘Page after page of empowering text speaks to energetic children everywhere’ – School Library Journal, starred review